Belfast International airport-based FBO Woodgate Aviation has added an 18,000 litre fuel tanker to its ground fleet of vehicles. The addition will enable the company to offer more favourable Jet A1 rates. The purchase of the vehicle followed an exclusive fuel agreement signed with global supplier Avfuel earlier in the year. Woodgate is the sole supplier of Avgas at Belfast International airport.

A few months ago the company, which has been in the business for 47 years, expanded its operations by opening a 33,000 sq ft hangar with the widest hydraulic doors in Europe.

“The tanker completes the set for us,” says general manager David Shaw. “Its capacity to hold 18,000 litres of Jet A1 fuel means we can offer a cost-saving and time-saving advantage to the customer.

We can refuel on site, avoiding expensive relocation costs to the former refuelling site at the other side of the airfield, and the price is the best there is.

“We are working with Avfuel to ensure we offer the most competitive price for our customers. Refuelling and aircraft handling are big parts of our business and this will consolidate our position as a market leader in Northern Ireland.”

Shaw’s team carries out aircraft maintenance and provides hangarage for private jets and props. Its hangar is operating close to capacity and the company plans to expand the site to meet rising demand.

“The tanker is a statement of intent of where we see Woodgate progressing, providing all aircraft services in house,” Shaw explains. “We have a positive view of immediate prospects and are planning for increased business in the next few years as we approach our 50th anniversary in business.”